Pet toys can be expensive, but you don’t need to break the bank to keep your furry friends happy and entertained. With some creativity and common household items, you can make fun toys for your pets at home.
Making DIY pet toys is a great way to save money and bond with your animal companions.
These homemade toys can be just as engaging as store-bought ones. Plus, you can customize them to your pet’s preferences and needs.
1. Sock-Feather Wand
This DIY pet toy is easy to make and fun for cats. You’ll need an old sock, some feathers, and a stick or dowel rod.
Start by stuffing the sock with crinkly paper or catnip. This adds extra interest for your feline friend. Tie off the open end of the sock securely.
Next, attach the sock to one end of the stick. Use strong tape or glue to make sure it stays put. Add feathers to the same end of the stick, near the sock.
You can use natural or artificial feathers from a craft store. Secure them well so they don’t come loose during play. Colorful feathers often catch a cat’s eye best.
Your homemade wand toy is now ready for action. Wave it around to encourage your cat to chase and pounce. The combination of sock, feathers, and movement will spark their hunting instincts.
This toy provides great exercise and mental stimulation for indoor cats. It’s also a fun way for you to bond with your pet through interactive play.
2. T-Shirt Tug Rope
Old t-shirts can be turned into fun tug toys for your dog. This project is easy and quick to make. You’ll need 3-4 old t-shirts and scissors.
Start by cutting the t-shirts into long strips about 2 inches wide. Make sure to remove any seams or hems. You should end up with about 15-20 strips.
Gather all the strips together and tie a knot at one end. Divide the strips into three groups. Begin braiding them tightly. As you braid, add more strips to each group to make the rope thicker.
When you reach the end of your braid, tie another tight knot to secure it. Trim any loose ends for a neat finish. Your homemade tug rope is now ready for playtime.
This toy is great for interactive play with your dog. It’s durable and washable. You can make it in different sizes depending on your dog’s breed and strength.
Remember to always supervise your pet during playtime. Replace the toy if it starts to fray or come apart.
3. Cardboard Box Maze
A cardboard box maze is a fun and simple toy for your pet. You can create this maze using old boxes from around your house. It’s a great way to reuse materials and keep your pet entertained.
To make the maze, gather a few cardboard boxes of different sizes. Cut openings in the sides of the boxes to connect them. Make sure the holes are big enough for your pet to move through comfortably.
Arrange the boxes in a maze-like pattern. You can make it as simple or complex as you want. For smaller pets, use shoe boxes or similarly sized containers. Larger pets might need bigger boxes like those used for appliances.
Add some excitement by hiding treats or toys throughout the maze. This will encourage your pet to explore every nook and cranny. You can also place some of their favorite toys inside to make it more inviting.
Consider lining the inside of the boxes with soft fabric or old towels. This will make the maze cozy and appealing to your pet. It also helps protect against any sharp edges.
Remember to supervise your pet while they play in the maze. Cardboard can be easily chewed or scratched, so keep an eye out for any damage. Replace parts of the maze as needed to keep it safe and fun for your furry friend.
4. Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser
Turn an old tennis ball into a fun toy for your pet. This DIY project is easy and cheap to make. Your furry friend will love the challenge of getting treats out of the ball.
Start by cutting a small slit in the tennis ball. Make sure it’s big enough for treats to fall out, but not too big. You don’t want all the treats to spill at once.
Fill the ball with your pet’s favorite small treats or kibble. Dry treats work best for this toy. Avoid anything sticky or messy.
Watch as your pet rolls the ball around, trying to get the treats out. This toy keeps them busy and gives them a mental workout. It’s great for dogs and cats alike.
You can make the game harder by cutting a smaller slit. Or make it easier with a bigger opening. Adjust it based on your pet’s skill level.
Clean the toy regularly to keep it safe for your pet. Replace it if it gets too worn out or chewed up. Always supervise your pet when they play with homemade toys.
This tennis ball treat dispenser is a simple way to reuse old balls. It’s a fun project that benefits both you and your pet.
5. No-Sew Sock Catnip Toy
Want to make a fun toy for your cat without any sewing? Try this easy no-sew sock catnip toy. You’ll need an old sock, some catnip, and a few common household items.
Start by turning the sock inside out. Tie a knot near the open end to create a pouch. Turn the sock right side out again.
Fill the toe of the sock with catnip. Don’t overstuff it – leave some room for your cat to bat it around. Tie another knot above the catnip to keep it in place.
Cut the excess sock above the second knot into strips. These will create fun fringe for your cat to play with. Trim the strips to about 2-3 inches long.
Your no-sew sock catnip toy is now ready for playtime! The familiar scent of the sock combined with catnip will attract your cat. The fringed ends add extra texture for batting and biting.
This toy is easy to refresh. Just untie the top knot and add fresh catnip when needed. You can also toss it in the washing machine to clean it.
Make a few of these toys to keep your cat entertained. They’re quick to create and use items you likely already have at home.
6. Braided Towel Chew Toy
A braided towel chew toy is an easy and fun project for your dog. You’ll need three old towels cut into long strips. Make sure to remove any loose threads or frayed edges.
Start by tying the strips together at one end. Braid the strips tightly, just like you would braid hair. When you reach the end, tie it off securely.
This toy is great for dogs who love to chew. The braided texture helps clean their teeth and massage their gums. It’s also washable, so you can keep it clean and fresh.
You can make the toy more exciting by hiding treats inside the braid. This will keep your dog engaged and entertained for longer periods.
For smaller dogs, use thinner towel strips. Larger dogs will enjoy thicker braids made from bath towels. You can even mix different colored towels for a more colorful toy.
Remember to always supervise your dog when playing with homemade toys. Replace the toy if it starts to unravel or show signs of wear and tear.
7. PVC Pipe Puzzle
A PVC pipe puzzle is a fun and challenging toy for your pet. It’s easy to make and can keep your furry friend entertained for hours.
To create this toy, you’ll need PVC pipes and connectors. Cut the pipes into different lengths and connect them in various ways. Make sure the pipes are wide enough for your pet’s paws to reach inside.
Hide treats or small toys inside the pipes. This will encourage your pet to explore and problem-solve. You can change the puzzle’s layout to keep it interesting.
For dogs, use larger pipes and put kibble or small treats inside. Cats might enjoy narrower pipes with dangling toys or catnip pouches.
Remember to supervise your pet while they play with this toy. Check the pipes regularly for any damage or wear. Replace parts as needed to keep the puzzle safe and fun.
This DIY toy is great for mental stimulation. It can help prevent boredom and keep your pet active. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that you can customize to your pet’s preferences.
8. Mason Jar Hamster Wheel
A Mason jar hamster wheel is a fun and easy DIY project for your small furry friend. You’ll need a large Mason jar, a wooden dowel, and some basic tools to get started.
First, clean the jar thoroughly and remove any labels. Drill a hole in the center of the lid big enough for the dowel to fit through.
Cut the dowel to size, making sure it’s long enough to extend beyond both sides of the jar. Sand the ends smooth to prevent splinters.
Attach small wooden discs to the ends of the dowel. These will keep the wheel in place and allow it to spin freely.
Insert the dowel through the hole in the lid and secure it with washers and nuts. Make sure the wheel can rotate smoothly.
You can add grip to the inside of the jar by gluing thin strips of sandpaper or rubber. This helps your dog run safely.
Place the wheel in your pet’s cage and watch them enjoy their new exercise toy. Always supervise your hamster when using homemade toys.
Remember to clean the wheel regularly to keep it hygienic for your pet. With proper care, this DIY toy can provide hours of entertainment for your furry friend.
9. Old Sweater Pet Bed
Got an old sweater you don’t wear anymore? Turn it into a cozy bed for your furry friend. This easy DIY project gives new life to unused clothing and creates a comfy spot for your pet to relax.
Start by stuffing the sweater with soft materials like old pillows, blankets, or foam. Make sure to pack it firmly for good support. You can use the sleeves to create a raised edge, giving the bed a more defined shape.
Sew the openings shut to keep the stuffing in place. If you’re not confident with sewing, fabric glue can work too. For extra comfort, add a soft blanket on top of the finished bed.
This homemade bed is perfect for cats and small to medium-sized dogs. They’ll love snuggling up in the familiar scent of your old sweater. Plus, it’s easy to wash – just toss it in the machine when it needs cleaning.
You can customize the bed to match your home decor. Choose a sweater color that complements your room or add decorative patches for a personal touch. Your pet will have a unique, cozy spot to call their own.
10. Wine Cork Cat Toys
Wine corks make great DIY cat toys. They’re lightweight, easy to bat around, and have an interesting texture that cats love. Plus, you probably have some lying around already.
To make a basic cork toy, simply give your cat a clean, dry wine cork. Many cats will happily play with it as-is. For extra fun, try tying a string to the cork so you can drag it along for your cat to chase.
You can also create a cork wand toy. Attach a cork to the end of a string, then tie the other end to a stick or dowel rod. Wave it around for your cat to pounce on and grab.
For a more challenging toy, make a cork puzzle feeder. Get a small cardboard box and cut cat-paw-sized holes in the top. Put some treats inside along with a few corks. Your cat will have to fish out the corks to get to the goodies.
Remember to always supervise your cat with homemade toys. Replace them if they start to break down. With these simple cork toys, your cat will have hours of safe, low-cost fun.
11. Toilet Paper Roll Feeder
Empty toilet paper rolls can become fun feeders for small pets. This easy project keeps your pets busy and entertained. It’s perfect for rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters.
Start by gathering a clean toilet paper roll and some of your pet’s favorite treats. Cut small holes around the tube. Make sure they’re big enough for treats to fall out, but not too large.
Fill the tube with your pet’s treats. You can use pellets, hay, or small pieces of vegetables. Close the ends of the tube by folding them inward.
Place the feeder in your pet’s enclosure. Watch as they roll it around, trying to get the treats out. This toy encourages natural foraging behavior.
You can make multiple feeders at once. Store extras for later use. Change up the treats inside to keep things interesting for your pet.
This toy is safe and recyclable. When it gets worn out, simply replace it with a new one. It’s a cheap, eco-friendly way to keep your small pets happy and active.
12. Plastic Bottle Crunch Toy
You can turn an empty plastic bottle into a fun crunch toy for your pet. This DIY project is easy and quick to make. It’s perfect for dogs and cats who love noisy toys.
Start by removing the label and cap from a clean plastic bottle. Make sure there are no sharp edges. Cut a few small holes in the sides of the bottle.
Fill the bottle with dry pasta, rice, or small pebbles. Don’t overfill it – leave some space for the contents to move around. This will create the crinkly sound pets love.
Secure the cap tightly. You can wrap the bottle in an old sock or fabric for extra safety. This also makes it easier for your pet to grab.
Supervise your pet when they play with this toy. Replace it if it gets damaged or worn out. This homemade toy is a great way to recycle and keep your furry friend entertained.
13. Fleece Snuffle Mat
A fleece snuffle mat is a fun DIY toy for dogs. It engages their sense of smell and keeps them busy. You can make one at home with just a few materials.
To create a snuffle mat, you’ll need a rubber sink mat and strips of fleece fabric. Cut the fleece into thin strips about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
Start by tying the fleece strips through the holes in the sink mat. Keep tying until the entire mat is covered with fleece strips. This creates a fluffy surface for your dog to explore.
Once your mat is ready, hide small treats or kibble in the fleece strips. Your dog will use their nose to search for the hidden goodies.
This toy is great for mental stimulation. It taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts. You can use it to slow down fast eaters or keep your pet busy on rainy days.
Snuffle mats are easy to clean. Just shake out any leftover treats and toss it in the washing machine when needed. Make sure to air dry it completely before using it again.
You can customize your snuffle mat by using different colors of fleece. This adds visual interest for you and your dog. Remember to supervise your pet while they use the mat to ensure safe play.
14. Cardboard Scratching Post
Cats love to scratch, and you can make a simple scratching post using cardboard. This DIY toy is easy to create and will keep your feline friend entertained for hours.
To start, gather some cardboard boxes and cut them into strips about 2 inches wide. You’ll need enough strips to create a thick post.
Stack the cardboard strips on top of each other, alternating the direction of the corrugation. This will give your cat different textures to scratch.
Use strong glue or tape to hold the strips together as you stack them. Keep adding layers until you have a post that’s about 6 inches thick.
Once your stack is complete, wrap it tightly with sturdy string or twine. This will help keep the cardboard strips together and add another texture for your cat to enjoy.
You can leave the post as is or attach it to a base for added stability. A piece of plywood or a small wooden board works well for this purpose.
Place the scratching post in an area where your cat likes to hang out. You might need to encourage your pet to use it at first by sprinkling some catnip on it or playing near it with a toy.
This homemade cardboard scratching post is a great way to recycle materials and provide your cat with a fun, safe place to scratch.
15. Jingle Bell Socks
Jingle bell socks are fun and easy toys for your pets. You can make them with items you probably have at home. They’re great for cats and small dogs who like to bat at things.
To make jingle bell socks, you’ll need a few supplies. Grab an old sock, some small jingle bells, and a needle and thread. You can use any color sock you like.
Start by turning the sock inside out. Sew a few jingle bells to the inside of the sock. Space them out evenly. This will make the toy safer for your pet.
Once you’ve sewn on the bells, turn the sock right side out again. Tie a knot in the open end of the sock. This keeps the bells inside and gives your pet something to grab.
Your jingle bell sock toy is now ready for playtime. The bells will make noise when your pet bats at the sock or carries it around. This sound can keep them interested and active.
Be sure to watch your pet when they play with this toy. Replace it if it starts to wear out. With proper care, your pet can enjoy their new jingle bell sock for a long time.
Benefits of DIY Pet Toys
Making toys for your pets at home can be fun and rewarding. You’ll save money, create custom playthings, and reuse materials you already have.
Cost-Effectiveness
DIY pet toys are much cheaper than store-bought options. You can make many toys for free using items from around your house. Things like empty toilet paper rolls, old socks, and cardboard boxes work great.
Even if you need to buy supplies, they’re often less expensive than ready-made toys. A ball of yarn can make several cat toys for the price of one store-bought version.
You’ll also save on replacements. When a homemade toy wears out, you can easily make a new one without spending more money.
Customization for Pet’s Preferences
You know your pet best. With DIY toys, you can tailor them to your furry friend’s likes and needs.
For example, if your dog loves to chew, you can make a tough rope toy. If your cat prefers crinkly sounds, you can add that feature to a homemade mouse toy.
You can adjust the size, texture, and difficulty level of toys as your pet grows or ages. This keeps playtime fun and challenging for them.
DIY toys also let you avoid materials your pet might be allergic to or dislike.
Recycling and Upcycling Materials
Making pet toys at home is good for the planet. You can turn trash into treasure by reusing items that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Old t-shirts become tug toys for dogs. Empty plastic bottles transform into crinkly cat toys. Even worn-out jeans can become durable chew toys.
This approach reduces waste and gives new life to old items. It’s a great way to be eco-friendly while keeping your pets happy and entertained.
You might even inspire your kids to get creative with recycling. It’s a fun family activity that teaches about recycling materials.
Safety Tips for Homemade Pet Toys
Making safe toys for your pets is important. You need to choose the right materials, avoid small parts, and check toys often to keep your furry friends happy and healthy.
Choosing Safe Materials
Pick materials that are non-toxic and pet-friendly. Use natural fabrics like cotton or wool for soft toys. Avoid anything with harmful chemicals or dyes. Opt for untreated wood for chew toys. Steer clear of items that can splinter or break easily.
For stuffing, use polyester fiberfill made for toys. Don’t use old clothes or foam that might have unsafe chemicals. Be careful with string or rope – make sure it’s thick enough that your pet can’t swallow it.
Safe materials for homemade pet toys:
- Cotton fabric
- Untreated wood
- Thick rope
- Natural rubber
- Polyester fiberfill
Avoiding Small Parts
Small parts can be risky for pets. They might choke on them or get hurt if they swallow them. Don’t use buttons, beads, or small plastic parts in your toys. If you’re making a toy with multiple pieces, make sure they’re big enough that your pet can’t swallow them.
Be extra careful with squeakers. If you use them, put them inside a sturdy toy that your pet can’t tear apart. Watch out for toys that might break into small bits. Avoid using anything that could come loose and become a hazard.
Tips for avoiding small parts:
- Use one-piece designs when possible
- Securely attach any parts
- Choose toys sized for your pet
- Avoid squeakers for heavy chewers
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Check your homemade toys often. Look for any wear and tear, loose parts, or damage. If you see any problems, fix the toy or throw it away. Clean the toys regularly to keep them safe and hygienic.
For fabric toys, wash them in hot water to kill germs. Let them dry completely before giving them back to your pet. For hard toys, wash them with soap and water, then rinse well.
Replace toys when they start to fall apart. Even if you make the toy, it’s not meant to last forever. Keep an eye on how your pet plays with each toy. If they start to chew or tear it apart, it might be time for a new one.
Toy maintenance checklist:
- Check for damage weekly
- Clean toys monthly
- Replace worn-out toys
- Watch how your pet uses each toy
Engaging Your Pet with DIY Toys
DIY pet toys offer fun ways to bond with your furry friend. These toys can keep your pet active and happy while saving you money. Let’s look at how to make playtime safe and exciting for your pet.
Supervision During Playtime
Always watch your pet when they play with new toys. This helps you spot any safety issues quickly. Take the toy away if your pet starts to chew or break it apart. Replace or fix toys that show signs of wear.
Small parts can be choking hazards. Be extra careful with string or ribbon toys. These can wrap around your pet’s tongue or paws. Remove them if your pet tries to eat them.
Playtime is a great chance to check on your pet’s health. Look for any changes in how they move or act. If you notice anything odd, talk to your vet.
Understanding Your Pet’s Play Style
Every pet likes to play differently. Some cats love to chase, while others prefer to bat at hanging toys. Dogs might enjoy fetch or tugging games.
Watch how your pet plays to learn what they like best. Do they pounce? Chew? Chase? Make toys that fit these habits.
Try different textures and sizes. Some pets like soft toys, others like hard ones. Test out various sounds too. Crinkly or squeaky toys might be a hit.
Remember, your pet’s favorites can change over time. Keep trying new things to see what they enjoy most.
Rotating Toys to Maintain Interest
Pets can get bored with the same toys. Switch them out every few days to keep things fresh. This makes old toys feel new again when you bring them back.
Have a set of toys you cycle through. Put away some toys while others are out. When you swap them, it’s like giving your pet a new gift.
Mix up the types of toys you offer. Use a blend of puzzle toys, chew toys, and active play toys. This keeps your pet’s mind and body busy.
Don’t forget to clean toys regularly. Wash soft toys and wipe down hard ones. This keeps them safe and appealing for your pet to use.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, making DIY pet toys is a fantastic way to not only save money but also create customized, engaging playthings that your pets will love.
By using common household items, you can craft a wide variety of toys that cater to your pet’s preferences and needs, while also reducing waste through upcycling.
Whether it’s a simple sock catnip toy or a more complex cardboard maze, these DIY projects offer endless opportunities for creativity and fun.
Most importantly, the time and effort you invest in making these toys will strengthen the bond you share with your furry friends, bringing joy and enrichment to both your lives. Remember to always prioritize safety by choosing pet-friendly materials, avoiding small parts, and regularly inspecting toys to ensure they remain in good condition.
With these easy, fun, and budget-friendly ideas, you can keep your pets entertained and happy for hours on end. Happy crafting!
